Tag Archives: 1987

1987 FLEER UPDATE BASEBALL CARDS MOST VALUABLE

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The 1987 Fleer Update baseball card set is considered one of the most valuable modern issues due to the rookie cards it featured.Released as a supplement to Fleer’s main 1987 set in July of 1987, the Update included cards of players who were called up to the majors too late to be included in the original checklist. Among those who debuted were future Hall of Famers like Greg Maddux, Tom Glavine, and David Justice. But the true gems were the rookie cards of Barry Bonds and Mark McGwire, who would go on to break the single season home run record.

While the entire 1987 Fleer Update set only features 66 cards total, it is still highly sought after by collectors due to what it included. The chase cards from the issue are the rookies of McGwire, Bonds, Glavine, and Maddux, with their cards routinely demanding the highest prices in top condition. In a PSA 10 Gem Mint grade, those four rookie cards can each sell for well over $1000 and up to tens of thousands of dollars depending on market conditions. But there are a few other standouts from the Update set as well that can demand big money.

The #1 most valuable card from the 1987 Fleer Update based on recent sale prices is the Barry Bonds rookie (card #56). Considered the true Holy Grail of the set, high grade Bonds rookies are some of the rarest and priciest modern era cards. One factor driving their price up is that Bonds went on to break Hank Aaron’s all-time home run record and was one of the best players of his generation. In PSA 10 condition, his rookie has sold for as much as $30,000, with most examples above the $10,000 mark. Condition is critical, as lower graded copies can dip below $100.

In the #2 spot is Mark McGwire’s rookie (card #48). Like Bonds, McGwire smashed the single season home run record in 1998 and his first card is one of the key pieces of MLB history. PSA 10 McGwire rookies have sold for $15,000+, with most higher end copies demanding $4,000-$10,000 across the grading services. His is certainly the 2nd most valuable from the 1987 Fleer Update based on recent sales data.

Taking the #3 spot is Greg Maddux’s rookie card (card #22). As one of the greatest pitchers ever who won 4 Cy Young awards, there is high demand for Maddux’s first Fleer card. PSA 10 examples have sold for $6,500 and up, with most gem mint copies above $3,000. In lower grades, it can still fetch $200-$500 depending on condition. Not quite as iconic or rare as the McGwire or Bonds cards, but still a highly sought after piece from this set.

Cracking the top 5 most valuable from the 1987 Fleer Update at #4 is Tom Glavine’s rookie (card #49). Like Maddux his teammate, Glavine had a Hall of Fame career and his rookie shows up less frequently than the position players above him. In PSA 10 it has sold for over $5,000, with $2,000+ for ungraded or lower graded copies still the norm. rounds out the top 5 as still a very recognizable and pricey card from the short print run set.

Outside the premier rookie cards, there are a few other notables worth mentioning that can still hold significant value from the 1987 Fleer Update based on their attributes or the players involved.

The Ivan Calderon card (#61) is one of the most visually striking cards in the set due to the bright colorful design on the reverse. Higher graded examples have sold for well over $1,000 despite Calderon being a fairly unknown player.

Dwight Gooden’s card (#66) as a member of the Mets can approach $100 PSA 10 due to his status as a fan favorite and dominant pitcher early in his career. Even in lower grades it outperforms most common players.

David Justice’s rookie (#63) as ring leader of the Baby Braves movement can reach $500 for a PSA 10 example. It shows up less frequently than other stars in the set too.

Jeff Reardon’s card (#60) as an All-Star closer gets a bonus from being one of the highly scarce short prints from the set’s production run. Higher grades have sold for $500+ due to rarity.

While small with just 66 total cards, the 1987 Fleer Update set holds immense value primarily driven by the rookie appearances of future stars McGwire, Bonds, Glavine and Maddux. In top Condition, their cards can sell for tens of thousands of dollars. But there are also some visually striking, popular players, and short print cards that provide other notable valuations outside the premier rookies as well. It remains one of the crown jewels for modern collectors and investors due to what it included uniquely for that time period.

1987 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS MOST EXPENSIVE

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The 1987 Topps baseball card set is one of the most iconic and valuable sets in the history of the hobby. While it doesn’t feature the all-time most expensive individual card, the ’87 Topps set does include several cards that have sold for astronomical prices due to the popularity and star power of the players featured. Let’s take a closer look at some of the 1987 Topps baseball cards that have reached the highest prices in recent sales.

Without a doubt, the most expensive 1987 Topps card is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Considered one of the greatest players of all time and an icon of the 1980s and 90s, Griffey’s rookie card from the ’87 set is the cream of the crop. In pristine mint condition with a grade of MINT+ 9.5 or higher on the scale of 10 from professional grading company PSA, Griffey rookie cards have sold for north of $100,000. A PSA 10 Griffey rookie smashed expectations when it sold for an astounding $275,432.50 on the PWCC Marketplace in August 2021, setting a new record.

Another legendary slugger with an extremely valuable rookie in the 1987 Topps set is Frank Thomas, aka “The Big Hurt.” Thomas dominated the league in the 1990s, winning back-to-back MVP awards in 1993 and 1994. His rookie card is considered perhaps the rarest and most desirable in the entire 1987 set due to the low print run of cards early in the alphabet. In a PSA 10 grade, Thomas’ rookie has cracked the $100,000 mark multiple times, including a sale of $116,000 in October 2021 on eBay. Pristine copies in PSA 9 have still commanded prices up to $30,000 as well.

Staying amongst the hitter cards, another 1987 Topps rookie with tremendous value is Barry Bonds. Prior to his all-time single season and career home run records in the late 90s and early 2000s, Bonds established himself as a superstar in Pittsburgh. His rookie card in the ’87 set is among the most iconic of the era. PSA 10 Bonds rookies have crossed the $15,000 threshold, while mint 9s still pull in up to $5,000. As one of the greats of all-time and with increased nostalgia, the Bonds rookie remains highly sought after.

On the pitching side, the headliner is undoubtedly Hall of Famer Greg Maddux. An absolute workhorse and dominant force in the 1990s, Maddux’s rookie card stands out in the 1987 Topps set. PSA 10 copies have sold for close to $10,000. Similar to his accomplishments on the mound, the Maddux rookie card shows impressive consistency, with PSA 9s still maintaining values of $2,000-3,000. His blend of star power, success, and defined rookie season make this one of the most prized hurler cards from the vintage 1987 set.

Rounding out the true “big four” of most valuable 1987 Topps rookies is San Diego Padres star shortstop Garry Templeton. While lesser known today than Griffey, Bonds or Maddux, Templeton burst onto the scene as a 22-year old All-Star in 1982 with the Cardinals. His impressive rookie season made his first Topps card quite popular and it remains one of the most coveted shortstop cards ever printed. Pristine PSA 10 Templeton rookies have sold for rarified air above $8,000. Like the other headliners, this rookie shows solid demand even in high-grade PSA 9s around the $3,000 range.

Beyond the star rookie class of 1987, a few other notable veteran and young star cards have reached over $1,000 in value based on player performance and nostalgia. PSA 10 cards of prolific hitters like Ryne Sandberg, Lenny Dykstra, and Ozzie Smith regularly sell above $2,000. Power pitchers like Dwight Gooden and Orel Hershiser also commanded four-figure values in top condition. RCs of young talent like Mark McGwire, Will Clark, and Kirt Manwaring that went on to respectably long MLB careers still trade hands for $500-1,000 in pristine condition as well.

While it lacks the single most valuable baseball card ever in Mickey Mantle, the 1987 Topps set features an unprecedented quarterback of perhaps the four most desirable rookie cards in the history of the hobby. Headlined by the astronomical prices achieved for Mint Ken Griffey Jr., Frank Thomas, Barry Bonds and Garry Templeton rookie PSA 10 gems, coupled with steady four-figure and low five-figure values for veterans and young emerging talents, the ’87 Topps set stands tall as one of the most complete and investible vintage releases ever made. Its mixture of superstars, nostalgia, and defining rookie seasons have made it a true heavyweight in the vintage trading card market.

TOPPS 1987 BASEBALL CARDS WORTH MONEY

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The 1987 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the more valuable vintage issues from the late 1980s. While it doesn’t contain the huge stars or rookie cards of some other years, savvy collectors know there are still quite a few keys and gems that can earn you some serious cash if found in the right condition. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top 1987 Topps cards that are worth money today.

One of the most valuable from the set is the rookie card of Hall of Famer Craig Biggio. As one of the greatest Houston Astros of all-time, there is big demand for Biggio’s first Topps issue. In PSA 10 Gem Mint condition, his 1987 Topps RC has sold for over $1,000. Even well-centered, sharp examples in PSA 9 Excellent condition can bring $300-500. Biggio went on to have a stellar 20-year career, playing in over 2,800 games and accruing 3,060 hits. His rookie is one collectors are always on the hunt for.

Another rookie card with high value is that of Dwight Gooden. As the 1985 NL Cy Young winner and a key piece of the 1986 Mets championship squad, Doc Gooden was one of the biggest stars in the game during the mid-80s. In PSA 10 condition, his 1987 Topps rookie has sold for between $800-1000. Even heavily played copies in PSA 5 Poor shape go for $50-100 based on past sales. Gooden’s talent and potential was on full display during the first few years of his career before injuries took over. His rookie remains a must-have for Mets and 80s baseball aficionados.

Hall of Famer Tim Raines had his breakout season in 1987 and that is captured forever on his Topps base card from that year. As a vital part of the Expos for over a decade and a member of the 2000 World Series champion Yankees, Raines was one of the finest leadoff hitters and base stealers of all-time. High grade copies of his ’87 have commanded $400-500 at auction. Even well-worn PSA 5s sell in the $50 range. Raines is still somewhat underappreciated so there is room for his cards to climb even higher in the years ahead.

While not a true rookie, the 1987 Topps card of Philadelphia Phillies star Mike Schmidt is quite valuable in higher grades. As a 10-time All-Star, 3-time NL MVP and key member of the 1980 World Championship team, Schmidt is a Phillies icon. His final Topps issued card from 1987 has sold for close to $300 in PSA 10 Mint condition. Even worn copies in the PSA 5-7 range can realize $50-$150 based on past sales. Schmidt remained a dangerous power threat right up until his retirement after the 1989 season.

The Philadelphia Phillies 1987 team set is also highly sought after by both Phillies collectors and enthusiasts of the classic 1985-87 ‘Boys of Summer’ Eagles. The World Series winning squad featured stars Schmidt, Juan Samuel, Steve Bedrosian, and others. Crisp PSA 10 graded team sets have sold online individually for $400-500 in recent years. PSA 9 Excellent sets command $300-350. Even rough PSA 5-7 graded team sets can pull in $100-200. This one is a must-have for Phillies fans and 80s nostalgia collectors.

The oft-underrated 1987 Topps card of Baltimore Orioles eventual Hall of Famer Cal Ripken Jr. has also gained recognition and value over the years. While not considered one of the premier Ripken rookies, his last card as primarily a third baseman is still highly regarded. PSA 10 copies have reached $300-500 at auction. Even heavily played PSA 5 versions typically sell in the $50-100 range for this iconic player who held the all-time consecutive games played streak.

Perhaps the true hidden gem of the 1987 Topps set is the rookie card of Toronto Blue Jays Hall of Famer Roberto Alomar. Still somewhat under the radar compared to other rookie year debuts, pristine PSA 10 Alomar rookies are beginning to sell in the $800-1200 range. Extremely well-centered PSA 9s can bring $400-600. Alomar went on to have a Cooperstown career and is still remembered as one of the finer second basemen in baseball history. His first Topps issue seems poised to continue its rise in value as another Alomar generation of collectors comes of age.

There are also a number of other notables from the 1987 Topps set that are worth mentioning and can hold significant value depending on grade. Future Hall of Famer Gary Carter’s cardboard from his final season with the Mets has sold for $150-250 in high grade. Ozzie Smith’s last card before a decade-long run with the Cardinals changes hands for $100-200 in PSA 8-10. Journeyman outfielder Bill Madlock’s lone flagship Reds issue, erroneously featuring him in a Giants uniform, ranks among the true oddball curios and can pull in $50+ even in ratty condition due to its oddity. And while not as valuable as other years, Mike Schmidt’s Phillies teammate and 1987 NL MVP pitcher Steve Bedrosian has sold for $100 in pristine PSA 10 form.

Demand and prices have increased over the years for 1987 Topps cards in higher grades. This was the final Topps issue before the switch to the glossier PhotoShield stock in 1988. It remains an iconic set remembered by many collectors who came of age during the latter years of the 1980s. While not loaded with true superstars or Rookie Cup regulars, there is still money to be made in high grade copies of stars like Biggio, Gooden, Raines, Ripken, Alomar and others. For savvy vintage collectors, the 1987 Topps set provides numerous affordable opportunities to land keys for future appreciation potential. Just taking the time to organize and properly grade cards can yield strong long term rewards from this undervalued vintage release.

1987 FLEER BASEBALL CARDS BOX

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The 1987 Fleer baseball card set was the third series of baseball cards produced by Fleer following their acquisition of the license from Topps in 1986. The 1987 set marked Fleer’s second year producing major league player cards and contained photographs of 652 different players from the American and National Leagues. The set featured colorful borders and action photography of the players. It marked both the continued shift to colored borders from Fleer after Topps traditionally used gray borders for decades, as well as a move towards more vibrant photography compared to the earlier plain style used by Topps.

A notable aspect of the 1987 Fleer set was the shift in the inclusion of retired players. Unlike previous years where retired players were rarely featured, the 1987 set included over 90 cards of players who were no longer active big leaguers. This was largely done to help fill out the set and provide collectors with popular names from baseball history. icons cards that featured retired players included Stan Musial, Ted Williams, Bob Gibson, and Hank Aaron.

Rookie cards were again included for players who debuted in 1986. Notable rookies in the 1987 Fleer set included future Hall of Famers Greg Maddux, Tom Glavine, and John Smoltz from the Atlanta Braves. Other top rookies included Wally Joyner, Jeromy Burnitz, and Rondell White. None of the rookie cards from the 1987 Fleer set would achieve the valuation of the seminal Ken Griffey Jr. upper deck rookie from 1989 which has become one of the most valuable modern baseball cards ever made.

In terms of the design layout, each Fleer card featured a white border with team logo in the top left corner. The player’s name and position were displayed horizontally along the bottom in bold red letters against the white background. Each card included career statistics on the reverse along with an action photo taking up most of the back. Fleer opted for a cleaner design compared to the more busy and cluttered appearance of Topps cards during this era which featured more text throughout the borders.

Among the chase cards in the 1987 Fleer set were higher numbered parallels and insert cards. Two of the inserts included the “Tug of War” subset featuring players engaged in a tug of war battle beyond their card borders. Another popular insert was the “Diamond Kings” subset honoring some of the games all-time greats with embroidered crowns. The higher numbered parallels in the base set beyond the standard #661 included gold and silver foil versions of the base cards for collectors to seek out. The most elusive parallel was the ultra-rare Fleer trademark stamp card which occupied the #661 position in the set.

When it was released in 1987, the boxes of 1987 Fleer baseball cards retailed for around $2.49. Wax packs within the boxes contained 11 cards each including one per pack guaranteed shiny foil parallel card. Given the large set size of 652 total cards, it took collectors buying multiple boxes worth of packs to ultimately complete the entire 1987 Fleer base set. The sheer volume of available cards combined with the inclusion of so many retired players diluted the investment potential compared to ealier lower count odution sets from the 1980s. For collectors of the era, the 1987 Fleer cards represented a fun and affordable way to build their player collections spanning multiple eras of baseball history.

Since its original release over 30 years ago, the 1987 Fleer set has not achieved tremendous increases in collector demand or card values like some other vintage 1980s issues. Bulk common base cards from the set can often be acquired for less than $1 each even in top graded gem mint condition. The popular rookie cards, inserts, and short printed parallels have maintained appeal for collectors. The Ted Williams, Hank Aaron, and Stan Musial retired player cards featuring the legends near the end of their careers also hold nostalgic value. While not as prized as some other vintage sets, the 1987 Fleer baseball cards still provide an affordable cross-section of players from that period for collectors three decades later.

The 1987 Fleer baseball card set marked the company’s second year as a major baseball card producer and featured a large checklist of 652 players. Design improvements were made over 1986 with brighter photography and team logo borders. Retired players were prominently included along with popular rookie cards. While common base cards hold little modern value, the set remains an accessible relic of 1980s baseball card culture containing the likes of Williams, Musial and other iconic players.

1987 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS FACTORY SET

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The 1987 Topps baseball card factory set was the 76th series of annual issues released by Topps and featured 660 total cards. It was the final set of the 1980s decade and carried on Topps’ tradition of providing collectors with team-grouped issues along with special subset and parallel inserts. Each year brought new designs, photography techniques, and player debuts that maintained fan interest. The ’87 set showcased another great season of Major League Baseball amidst rising stars and established legends of the game.

A few notable firsts and finales were part of the ’87 set. It marked the Topps rookie card debut for future Hall of Famers Ken Griffey Jr., Craig Biggio, and Dennis Eckersley. On the other end, it included the final Topps cards for long-time veterans Jim Kaat, Mike Flanagan, and Bill Madlock. The larger factory set included all 660 cards sequentially arranged by team in aluminum wax packaging. Collectors could find completed team sets, stars, and rookie cards all together in the factory version.

Topps’ design for the ’87 set featured a blue border with red and white team color panels on either side. Player photos were positioned above their team logo and wrapped around the left side of the card. Statistics like career batting average or earned run average were listed on the right side along with the standard Topps copyright on the bottom. The iconic “Action All The Way” slogan appeared in block letters at the top. Topps art directors like SCORE Magazine editor Sal Bando oversaw creative direction and photo selection each year.

Within the factory set, collectors found Team Leaders, Diamond Kings, Record Breakers, and All-Star special inserts highlighting achievement. The Rainbow Foil parallels added visual excitement to select cards as well. Popular teams from big markets like the New York Mets and Los Angeles Dodgers had larger checklists than smaller franchises. The scarce ‘86 World Series Champion New York Mets team issue was included with members of that championship squad. All teams featured players, managers, and coaches for comprehensive rosters each season.

Top young stars on the rise like Griffey Jr. and Biggio began to draw more attention in the ’87 set as future Hall of Famers. Rookie cards remained highly sought after for star potential. Veteran players like Mike Schmidt, George Brett, and Nolan Ryan anchored established stars in the set. Playoff races heated up throughout that season with tight divisional battles in both the American and National Leagues. The Minnesota Twins would go on to defeat the St. Louis Cardinals in the 1987 World Series, sealing another chapter in baseball history.

Outside of the core card checklist, Topps peppered in memorable subsets to highlight various aspects of the game. The Record Breakers subset featured players who set or were approaching career or single-season records. Doc Gooden and Wade Boggs saw their chase for milestones memorialized here. Diamond Kings paid tribute to iconic players still lighting up the diamond in the twilight of their careers like Ryne Sandberg and Gary Carter. All-Star cards acknowledged the great performances of those selected to the midsummer classic from both leagues that year.

Completing the set involved collecting all 660 sequentially arranged cards as they were released in wax packs from local retail outlets or card shows. The factory version offered the set preassembled for convenience. While subsets added flair, the core team issues starring current players drove completion demand. Topps quality control ensured cards were cut evenly and printed with vivid colors that housed between a layer of wax for protection. Stickers on the factory packaging authenticated a completed collection for the ’87 season.

By 1987, the baseball card hobby had reached new popularity levels fueled by speculation and investment. Both mint and used copies of stars like Roberto Alomar and Barry Bonds rose in value as their careers progressed. The factory set offered an efficient and cost-effective route for collectors seeking a preserved and finished ’87 collection without the risk of chasing imperfect singles. Topps would continue innovating new insert types and higher-end parallels to galvanize collectors for another 30+ years in the annual tradition they established. The 1987 Topps set served as a snapshot of MLB at that moment frozen in pink gum between wax and paper for generations of fans to relive or discover.

MOST VALUABLE 1987 FLEER BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1987 Fleer baseball card set marked a comeback year for the Fleer brand in the baseball card industry after leaving the market in 1981. While not the most iconic or well-known design compared to flagship brands like Topps, the 1987 Fleer set featured several rookie cards and rookie versions of future Hall of Famers that have become extremely valuable in the decades since. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the most valuable and significant 1987 Fleer baseball cards to own if you’re a serious collector or investor.

One of the true gems of the 1987 Fleer set is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Widely considered one of if not the most iconic rookie card of all time, Griffey’s smooth left-handed swing and effortless skills in center field made him an instant fan favorite. His rookie card captured the beginning of what would become a surefire Hall of Fame career. In near-mint to mint condition, Griffey’s rookie now regularly commands prices above $1000 and has sold for over $25,000 in gem mint 10 gradings. Even in well-worn condition, this card remains highly sought after and valuable given the legendary status of “The Kid”.

Another extremely valuable 1987 Fleer rookie is the Barry Bonds card. Distinctive for its photo showing Bonds in a crouched batting stance, this card had underestimated value for years since Bonds’ offensive stats grew rapidly later in his career. As Bonds neared and broke the all-time home run records, demand skyrocketed for his rookie card. In top condition its value has soared into the thousands, with one recent PSA 10 gem mint sale reaching nearly $30,000. For Bonds collectors, this 1987 Fleer rookie is truly a crown jewel.

The legendary Greg Maddux got his first major league card in 1987 Fleer as well. Though not technically a true rookie since he debuted in 1986 for the Chicago Cubs, it served as Maddux’s first card in a Fleer set after appearing in Donruss in 1986. Like Bonds, Maddux went on to put up Hall of Fame numbers and is considered one of the best pitchers of all time. In top condition his 1987 Fleer has sold for over $1700. It remains very popular for collectors looking to represent one of baseball’s most dominant hurlers at an early stage of his outstanding career.

Roberto Alomar’s rookie card from the 1987 Fleer set also holds tremendous value. Alomar broke in with the San Diego Padres in 1988 but was included in Fleer due to his MLB debut coming late in the 1987 season. He would go on to a career as a .300 hitter and one of the best fielding second basemen ever, earning Hall of Fame induction in 2011. In pristine mint condition, Alomar’s rookie has reached over $3000 at auction. It’s a true key card for any baseball card collection focusing on the stars of the 1990s.

In addition to high-profile rookie cards, the 1987 Fleer set featured several cards showing future Hall of Famers in the prime of their careers that carry immense price tags today. A notable example is the Kirby Puckett card, capturing the Twins legend at the peak of his hitting prowess in 1987 when he batted .332. High-grade examples have sold for over $1500. Also very costly is the Cal Ripken Jr. card from the set, reflecting his run at the all-time consecutive games played record. PSA 10 copies of Ripken’s 1987 Fleer card have reached the $2000 range.

Rickey Henderson, Reggie Jackson, and Wade Boggs are other examples of cards that have achieved astronomical prices in the most pristine of conditions. Even though they weren’t rookies, representing these legends of the 1980s at the height of their fame and ability is highly sought after by collectors. They’re true flagship cards that exemplify the talent level featured in the 1987 Fleer set.

While not the flashiest or most iconic baseball card release compared to brands like Topps, the 1987 Fleer set holds tremendous nostalgia and value due to its array of rookie cards as well as cards showing baseball immortals at the peak of their MLB stardom. Keys like Ken Griffey Jr, Barry Bonds, Roberto Alomar, and Greg Maddux set the standard for the most expense rookie cards money can buy. Coupled with star-studded veteran standouts, 1987 Fleer remains a benchmark year in the modern card collecting era and an asset for any dedicated baseball memorabilia portfolio. The allure of owning vintage cardboard featuring legends at the dawn of their fame continues to drive enthusiast demand and investment potential decades later.

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1987 TOPPS BASEBALL ROOKIE CARDS

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The 1987 Topps baseball card set is renowned among collectors as one of the all-time great vintage sets for rookie cards. While it did not have the true rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like the 1989 Topps set, it featured the rookie cards of many talented players who went on to have fantastic MLB careers. Perhaps most notably, the 1987 Topps set contains the highly coveted rookie cards of Barry Larkin, Greg Maddux, and Tom Glavine. With strong rookie classes and talented young players, the 1987 Topps baseball cards continue to be a treasure trove for collectors decades later.

Some key things to know about the 1987 Topps baseball rookie cards include that the entire set contains 792 total cards. The cards have a classic purple and white design that is similar to Topps sets from the mid-1980s. On the front is a color photo of the player along with their team name and position. On the back is stats from the previous season as well as a brief career overview. As was common in the late 1980s, the cards are issued without gum. Card quality ranged from fairly sharp to dull and worn considering they were mass produced over 35 years ago. Now let’s take a closer look at some of the top rookie cards from the 1987 Topps set.

Arguably the most iconic and valuable 1987 Topps rookie card is that of Greg Maddux, who went on to become a legend of the game. Maddux’s rookie card shows him as a member of the Chicago Cubs wearing uniform number 31. At the time, he had just broken into the big leagues in 1986 where he pitched 22 innings over 9 games with an impressive 2.18 ERA. Little did collectors know he would go on to win 4 Cy Young awards and anchor pitching rotations for the Braves, Padres, and Cubs over a 23 year Hall of Fame career. PSA 10 graded Maddux rookies frequently sell for well over $1000 due to his all-time great status.

Another absolutely storied career depicted on a 1987 rookie card is that of Tom Glavine. Like Maddux, Glavine broke in during 1986 where he made 15 starts for the Atlanta Braves and flashed promise with a 3.68 ERA. His rookie card shows him as a Brave with number 47. Glavine would go on to be one of the greatest left-handed pitchers ever, winning 2 Cy Youngs of his own to go along with 305 career wins and 2,607 strikeouts over 22 MLB seasons split between Atlanta and the Mets. High grade Glavine rookies also command big money today.

Staying in Atlanta, the 1987 Topps set also gave collectors the first card featuring Ron Gant as a member of the Braves. Gant had played sparingly in 1985 and 1986 but was on the cusp of stardom. He enjoyed his first full season in 1987 where he blasted 25 home runs and stole 21 bases, showing the five tool promise that would make him a perennial All-Star and 30-30 threat for much of the late 1980s and early 1990s. While not in the stratosphere of Maddux or Glavine, graded Gant rookies still attract solid interest.

Shifting to the American League, the Cincinnati Reds’ Barry Larkin was given his first baseball card in the 1987 issues. Larkin broke in halfway through 1986 and hit .268 over 51 games to demonstrate his skills at shortstop. He was rightly projected to be the Reds’ starting shortstop for years to come. Of course, Larkin far exceeded those expectations by reaching the Hall of Fame and winning an MVP during a 19 year career spent entirely in Cincinnati. High grade Larkin rookies have blown past the $1000 mark in recent years.

A couple of other future All-Stars and accomplished players who debuted in the 1987 Topps set include Mark Grace of the Cubs and Ruben Sierra of the Texas Rangers. Grace went on to be a career .303 hitter and 5-time All-Star for Chicago in the 1990s, winning the 1989 NL batting title. Sierra emerged as a power-hitting outfield force for the Rangers and Athletics in the late 80s and early 90s, smashing 306 career home runs and twice leading the league in that category. Both Grace and Sierra rookies can still be acquired in the $100-300 range depending on condition.

While players like Maddux, Glavine, Larkin, Grace and Sierra understandably get the headlines, there are many other notable rookie cards and future big leaguers found throughout the 1987 Topps set. It served as the first card for talents such as Ellis Burks, Gregg Olson, Dave Martinez, Jeff Montgomery, and Jeff Reardon, among others. The 1987 issues also gave collectors a first glimpse of stars well before they blossomed like Will Clark, Barry Bonds, and Frank Thomas. The 1987 Topps baseball cards remain a legendary vintage release that maintains strong collector interest many decades after first being pulled from packs. With iconic rookie cards and talented players, it’s easy to see why this particular set from Topps is considered among the finest in the hobby.

1987 TOPPS CHEWING GUM BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1987 Topps baseball card set was the 66th series produced by the Topps Chewing Gum Company. It marked several notable occasions for both Topps and the baseball card collecting hobby in general. For starters, it was the first Topps set featuring an all-color photograph on every card. Prior to 1987, black and white photos were still used for many players. Topps decided to go all-color in ’87 to better showcase today’s vivid baseball card photography technology. Furthermore, 1987 would be legendary slugger Pete Rose’s final card appearance before his lifetime ban from Major League Baseball the following year for gambling.

The design of the 1987 Topps cards was fairly simple. On the front was a 3×4 cropped color photo of the player against a white background. Below the photo was the team name and logo along with any nicknames. At the very bottom was the player’s name and uniform number in blue font. On the reverse, statistical information was presented in blue and orange tables spanning four seasons of data (1983-1986). Career stats were also included. The card stock was thicker than previous Topps issues, providing sturdier cards that held up better to the rigors of being shuffled, traded, and stored in bulging cardboard boxes under kid’s beds.

Speaking of photos, the 1987 Topps set saw the debut of respected baseball photographer William “Bud” Smith. A longtime Topps hire, Smith would go on to shoot photographs for hundreds of future Topps releases. His artistic eye and attention to detail helped elevate the visual quality of the ’87s above previous cardboard. With Smith’s photos serving as the main visual component on each card front, sets took on a cohesive polish not readily apparent in past mixed photo/illustration designs. Players finally seemed consistently posed at the plate or on the mound from card to card.

Some key statistical and player milestones found in the 1987 Topps set included Fernando Valenzuela’s emergence with the Dodgers, Roger Clemens’ first of many 20-win seasons with the Red Sox, Wade Boggs hitting .368 to lead the AL for the 4th straight year, and Tim Raines amassing 90 stolen bases as the league’s premier base stealer. Rookies Ken Griffey Jr. and Mark McGwire also got their cardboard introductions. The Dodgers and Twins faced off in the ’87 World Series, captured on the card fronts of Orel Hershiser and Kirby Puckett respective to their championship teams.

Beyond just the on-field action, the 1987 Topps cards also highlighted some off-the-field transitions. This was the final set to feature Cincinnati Reds legend Pete Rose before his lifetime ban took effect in August 1989 after an investigation found he had bet on baseball games while managing the team. Cards of Rose in a Reds uniform would never be seen again. Similarly, this was the last Topps issue for longtime Expos slugger Tim Raines in a Montreal uniform. He would be traded to the Cubs before the 1988 season. Raines’ Expos career was captured perfectly with his ’87 Topps RC.

When it came to card layout and distribution, the 1987 Topps set contained 792 total cards as was standard for Topps issues of the era. The base cards ran from #1 to #792 with additional inserts like Topps All-Star cards and Traded subsets rounding things out. As with most modern releases, the cards came in factory-sealed wax packs of five cards each, with one pack included free inside a stick of Topps Chewing Gum. This blast from the past retro packaging helped fuel the enthusiasm kids felt for the cardboard hobby each spring.

In the decades since, the 1987 Topps baseball cards have become very influential and iconic issues within the collecting community. They represent the transition from mixed photo sets to fully colorized cardboard. Topps’ commitment to higher quality photography is evident. And the clean yet classic designs have aged extremely well. Modern condition-sensitive collectors especially seek out pristine ’87s to showcase in protective holders. But even beat-up examples hold significance as tangible pieces of baseball history from a transformational period for the cardboard craze. Values have steadily climbed since the late ’80s boom, ensuring these classic cards remain beloved staples in collections worldwide.

Thanks to breakthroughs like all-color photos, elite photographers, and enduring nostalgic designs, the 1987 Topps baseball cards earned their place as some of the most important and fondly remembered issues in the hobby’s lore. They captured a special year in MLB on the field while celebrating iconic players and careers off it. Today, they continue to inspire new generations of collectors with their timeless mix of baseball, bubblegum, and childhood summers past. The ’87s were truly a seminal set that pushed cardboard collecting to greater heights.

1987 FLEER BASEBALL CARDS KEN GRIFFEY 516

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The 1987 Fleer baseball card featuring future MLB Hall of Famer Ken Griffey Jr. is one of the most iconic rookie cards of all time. With his smooth left-handed swing and tremendous athleticism that would come to define “The Kid” throughout his career, the Fleer #516 rookie card capture Griffey in his debut season and holds significant nostalgia for baseball card collectors and fans of the game.

Born in Donora, Pennsylvania in 1969, Ken Griffey Jr. was destined for baseball stardom from a young age as the son of former major leaguer Ken Griffey Sr. A standout prep player in high school in Cincinnati, Ohio, Griffey was selected number 1 overall by the Seattle Mariners in the 1987 amateur draft. Eying his impressive power and defensive skills in center field from the start of his pro career, the Mariners aggressively promoted Griffey through the minors that season.

By August, Griffey got the call to join the big league club in Seattle at just 18 years old. He would finish 1987 with a .264 batting average, 7 home runs, and 21 RBIs in 48 games as Seattle evaluated their prized prospect. It was in this rookie season that Fleer released their ’87 baseball card set featuring Griffey’s debut. The iconic image shows Griffey holding his bat behind his shoulder, legs spread confidently in the batter’s box ready to unleash that left-handed swing. His youthful smile projects the joy and enthusiasm Griffey played with that would later earn him the “Kid” moniker.

For collectors, the 1987 Fleer Ken Griffey Jr. rookie is highly coveted for its historical significance. Capturing Griffey in his true rookie season, it remains one of the most sought after baseball cards ever produced. In pristine ‘mint’ condition, examples have sold at auction for over $100,000 in recent years. Even well-kept copies in lower grades still command prices in the thousands due to Griffey’s enduring popularity and status as a true icon of the sport.

Part of what makes the ’87 Fleer Griffey so iconic is how it captured the rise of baseball card culture and collecting boom of the late 1980s. Fleer’s innovative set design with vibrant colors and action shots of players helped breathe new life into the once stagnant baseball card market. Griffey’s emergence as one of the game’s young stars perfectly aligned with collectors just starting to appreciate the historic value attached to rookie cards. As ‘The Kid’ went on to have a Hall of Fame career wearing No. 24 for the Mariners and Cincinnati Reds, the nostalgia and significance attached to that ’87 Fleer only grew exponentially with time.

In his 22 year MLB career that spanned from 1989 until 2010, Griffey put together a resume that will likely ensure his status as one of the greatest to ever play the outfield. He smacked 630 home runs – the sixth most all-time – while hitting above .300 eight times and winning 10 Gold Glove awards defensively. Griffey led the American League in home runs three different seasons and helped power the Mariners to their lone AL Pennant and appearance in the 1995 ALCS. Inducted to the Hall of Fame in 2016 with over 99% of the vote in his first year of eligibility, Griffey connected with a generation of young fans with his effortless talent and joy for the game.

For collectors, demand has never waned for Griffey’s iconic ’87 Fleer rookie card since it was released over 30 years ago. While true gem mint 10 examples remain out of reach except for the deepest of pockets, well-preserved lower graded copies still retain significant collector value given the subject and history captured on the cardboard. Periodic appearances of the card in popular culture from TV shows to films has also helped sustain enthusiasm from newer generations discovering Griffey’s greatness. With the Fleer set itself a key part of the rise of the modern baseball card boom, Griffey’s rookie will always be one of the most collectible and coveted in the hobby due to his unique place in baseball history and lingering popularity worldwide. For capturing such an unforgettable rising star so perfectly, the 1987 Fleer Ken Griffey Jr. card #516 remains a touchstone piece for collectors across generations.

The 1987 Fleer Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card holds immense historical and nostalgic significance as a true icon capturing one of the greatest players and personalities the game has ever seen in his debut big league season. As interest in collecting vintage memorabilia and defining rookie cards continues growing, examples of this beloved Fleer Griffey can be expected to retain and potentially increase in value given its irreplaceable place in the history of both the star player himself and development of the modern baseball card industry. Over three decades since its original release, card #516 remains one of the most desirable and defining rookie cards for collectors and fans alike.

GOOD BASEBALL CARDS FROM 1987

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The 1987 baseball card set was a memorable one that featured some of the game’s biggest stars and future Hall of Famers. While not quite as iconic or valuable as some earlier sets from the 1970s, there were still many exciting rookie cards and cards of established stars that have held their value well over the years. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top players and cards collectors sought after from the 1987 set.

One of the most notable rookies from 1987 was catcher Benito Santiago of the San Diego Padres. His rookie card showed promise of what was to come as he went on to have an excellent 19-year career hitting over 200 home runs. Santiago’s defensive prowess earned him five Gold Glove awards and his rookie card remains quite collectible today among Padres and rookie card collectors. Another rookie to debut in 1987 was slugging first baseman Mark McGwire of the Oakland A’s. Little did anyone know at the time that McGwire would go on to smash 583 career home runs and break baseball’s single season home run record. His rookie card also showed him sporting his classic number 25 jersey and remains one of the most valuable and sought after rookie cards from the 1980s.

On the pitching side, the 1987 set featured the rookie cards of future Cy Young winners Tom Glavine and Greg Maddux, both of the Atlanta Braves. Glavine went on to rack up 305 career wins and 2 Cy Young awards while Maddux won 4 Cy Youngs of his own while developing into one of the best control pitchers ever. Their rookie cards carry substantial demand. Also debuting in 1987 was future 300-game winner David Cone of the New York Mets. Cone’s card showed promise of what was to come as he became a durable starter and postseason star over his 17-year MLB tenure. Each of these 1980s rookie pitching cards hold significant modern day value.

The 1987 set also included the baseball cards of many established superstars who were entering their primes or viewed as future Hall of Famers. One was burgeoning superstar Jose Canseco’s card from his breakout 1986 40-40 season with the Oakland A’s. Knowing what unfolded with the “Bash Brothers” era of Oakland baseball in subsequent years adds intrigue to Canseco’s rising star status captured on his ’87 card. Future Hall of Famer Don Mattingly’s card from his MVP caliber 1985 season with the New York Yankees remains a highly coveted piece from the set as well. The smooth swinging Mattingly was in the midst of a dominant stretch and his card invokes nostalgia for the Yankee dynasty teams of the 1980s.

Speaking of dynasties, the 1987 set also included cards for Boston Red Sox stars Roger Clemens and Wade Boggs, whom were in the midst of helping lead the BoSox to the American League East crown. Clemens’ card showed him in the process of cementing his status as one of the game’s most intimidating aces while Boggs’ card depicted the relentless hitting machine as he chased .300 season after .300 season. Both played key roles in the Red Sox’ reemergence as contenders and their cards remain very popular selections from the 1987 Topps set. Dodgers ace Orel Hershiser also had an incredibly valuable card from 1987, the year after he won 23 games and the NLCS MVP award while leading L.A. to a World Series title.

Rickey Henderson, one of the game’s most electrifying players, had perhaps the most iconic card from the 1987 set as well. Captured in mid-steal with his bat swinging, Henderson’s card spoke to the position he held as baseball’s premier base stealer and catalyst during his 25-year career. Other highly coveted cards included those of Red Sox star Dwight Evans, Phillies All-Star Mike Schmidt, and Yankee slugger Don Baylor, who each had memorable seasons in 1987. Hall of Fame reliever Dennis Eckersley also had a noteworthy card as he made the transition from starter to closer with the Red Sox.

In terms of overall rarity and valuation today, some of the most expensive 1987 cards to acquire include the rookie cards of McGwire, Glavine, and Maddux in high grade. The Canseco, Clemens, and Henderson cards also demand top dollar. But there are also plenty of affordable star cards and rookie cards to be found that still hold importance for collectors. All in all, the 1987 baseball card set was bursting with talent and its cards serve as a great reminder of some of the biggest names who played the game during a memorable decade for baseball in the 1980s. Given all the Hall of Famers and stars it featured, the 1987 Topps set remains a highly collectible and nostalgia-inducing set for fans and collectors alike.